The Dalai Lama, 88, has arrived in New York for medical treatment, specifically for his knees. His office announced that he will not be holding any public engagements from June 20 onwards until further notice. This marks his first visit to the United States since June 2017, when he last visited for a routine medical check-up at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, New York.
The Dalai Lama’s visit underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions, as interactions with him are often sensitive due to China’s stance on Tibet. Recently, the U.S. has shown support for the Tibetan cause through legislative measures, such as the bipartisan ‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act’, which challenges China’s narrative on Tibet’s historical status and calls for renewed dialogue with the Dalai Lama’s representatives.